Kim Min-jae

Kim Min-jae is a confirmed centre-back in South Korea's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, named in the final 26 on 16 May 2026 under head coach Hong Myung-bo. The Bayern Munich defender is 29 at kick-off and brings 77 senior caps and four international goals into the tournament, his second World Cup after a Round-of-16 run at Qatar 2022.

South Korea were drawn in Group A with Mexico, South Africa and Czech Republic, and open their campaign in Zapopan on 11 June. Hong's side reached the finals by winning their AFC third-round group, sealed in June 2025, and raced through that qualifying run unbeaten. Kim is one of the senior defenders in a squad captained by Son Heung-min.

Kim is a ball-playing centre-back, rated as much for his composure in possession as for his defending. He reads danger early, competes well in the air, and is comfortable carrying or passing the ball out to start moves from deep, a profile that suits a side that likes to build from the back.

That range lets South Korea progress play through the centre rather than going long, while his recovery defending gives the line a senior presence in one-against-one situations. In Hong's 3-4-3 he features in central defence.

Kim Min-jae gives South Korea's Goal Rush pick its defensive spine. He defends his box, wins his aerial duels and steps out with the ball to start attacks, the experienced centre-back at the back of Hong Myung-bo's three.

Hong Myung-bo's team open against the Czech Republic in Zapopan, with Mexico and South Africa to come. South Korea are a lower-priced Tier 4 call at £10m within the game's £200m card budget.